A report says Ferguson highlighted McBurnie’s strong season with Hull City, where the striker was reportedly among the leading scorers and delivered a decisive play-off moment. Yet he was not included in Clarke’s squad, with Lyndon Dykes and Che Adams preferred as the main attacking options.
The criticism is not proof McBurnie would have transformed the tournament. It does, however, underline the frustration surrounding Scotland’s lack of a dependable focal point in attack. When a team struggles to create danger, the players left at home quickly become part of the debate.
Ferguson also pointed to George Hirst, who was reportedly productive for Ipswich Town as the club pushed towards the Premier League.
“George Hirst, no Ipswich, fez cerca de 15 gols pelo clube e agora também está na Premier League. Então são dois atacantes que vão jogar a Premier League nesta temporada. Talvez devessem estar jogando ou, pelo menos, neste grupo,” Ferguson added.
His broader argument was that both forwards had earned, at minimum, a place in the group. Scotland’s attack reportedly produced only one goal at the tournament, making the omission of alternative centre-forwards an even sharper talking point.
The report also says Clarke’s departure followed the campaign, leaving his selection policy as part of the post-tournament inquest. The issue is now bigger than two names: it is about whether Scotland had enough variety and form in the final third.
If Clarke’s exit is confirmed, the next manager will face an immediate selection test. McBurnie and Hirst are likely to remain central to the conversation when Scotland’s next squad is announced and the rebuilding process begins.